Sen. Ed Harbison (D–Columbus) welcomed members of the Western Hemisphere Institute for Security Cooperation (WHINSEC) to the Georgia State Capitol on August 27, 2025. The visit aimed to highlight ongoing cooperation between Georgia and WHINSEC’s international mission, which focuses on leadership, ethics, and regional partnership.
The group’s visit was part of their professional development activities. WHINSEC participants came to learn about Georgia’s legislative process and how state government supports both public institutions and international engagement.
“It is my privilege to welcome WHINSEC students to our State Capitol for a third time this summer. Their dedication to supporting leadership and democracy throughout the Americas is crucial in an era when global partnerships are more significant than ever. WHINSEC remains a vital resource in fostering international diplomacy in the Western Hemisphere.
As a former Marine, I know exactly how important organizations like WHINSEC are for maintaining peace across our hemisphere. I’m proud that Georgia is home to an institute that prioritizes human rights, ethics and democracy. It is always important to be prepared for war, but most of our days are peaceful. We must remain vigilant and preserve stability across our hemisphere and our world,” Sen. Harbison said.
WHINSEC operates out of Fort Benning in Columbus, Georgia. The organization brings together military personnel as well as civilian and law enforcement officials from countries throughout the Americas for training focused on leadership, ethical standards, and respect among nations. The recent Capitol visit highlights Georgia’s role as both host state and partner in advancing regional security initiatives.
More information about WHINSEC can be found at its official website.
